Quintet in G major, Op. 77

The String Quintet in G major was the most distinctive work in the composer's hitherto development. In comparison with his previous chamber pieces, the music is not only technically more refined and structurally more balanced, but it also has a more imposing sound -- the unusual addition of the double bass in place of the fifth instrument allowed the composer to move the cello part to a higher, more lyrical position. Originally, the quintet had five movements, since Dvorak decided to include the revised slow movement from his earlier String Quartet in E minor. He later abandoned the idea, however, and instead kept it as an independent piece under the title Nocturne. The first movement of the quintet is written in regular sonata form with two themes. The second movement is a scherzo, with the same outer sections and a contrasting trio. The main theme of the movement with its sharp rhythmical accents, and the second subject modulating down a major second, already anticipate Dvorak's so-called Slavic period. The slow third movement is a typical example of Dvorakian lyricism. The prevailing mood is one of profound sentiment, instilled in the broadly arching melodies which become more animated for a moment during a restless passage in the middle section. The final movement is written in rondo form, constructed from only two themes which, during the course of the movement, crop up in different variations, thus deflecting any hint of monotony. - antonin-dvorak.cz